Poema

If a music fan was to think of sisters singing together, the first group to come to mind would probably be HAIM. Today, however, we’re coming across a new act that fits the label quite wonderfully, Poema, which is a collaborative project between Elle and Shealeen Puckett, two Nashville-based sisters that have been playing together ever since they can remember.

Elle and Shealeen managed to snag a record deal way back in 2009, but now they’ve granted themselves full creative freedom by going the independent route. As a result of that decision, we have a warm, guitar-soaked new single from the group called “Forget You In LA”, and as far as mellow indie-pop goes, this is one of the better efforts we’ve heard of lately. You’re going to want to be sure to give it a good listen, and with Poema’s upcoming five-track EP, Pretty Speeches, out July 10, you can expect similar sounds to follow in its wake. - Cole Ryan

Nashville transplants Poema released their new EP, Pretty Speeches, to much indie attention on Friday, July 10 (global record release day is now Friday, in case you haven’t heard!). It’s much more than a complicated relationship album. Their sound is far and away more produced and polished in the best way; think the Haim sensibilities and harmonies meet a pretty Colbie Caillat-style voice and sleepy reverb over perfectly stripped-down mood music. Pretty Speeches will be your new poolside layout album. Each song has a different style, but each continue the relaxed, beach ambience (like their new single “Forget You in LA”). Don’t worry, they keep their surprising trills and meaningful lyrics, but this time the lyrics are more centered on nuanced moments during travel and with exciting, confusing relationships. Want to reminisce on wild, past(/present) loves while basking in the afternoon glow? Check out Poema’s new, matured sound below. - M. OLIVIA BURD